As the Washington Huskies gear up for the 118th Apple Cup, head coach Jedd Fisch is confronted with the unique challenge of facing a third different coach from Washington State. This Sunday, Kirby Moore will make his head coaching debut at Husky Stadium, stepping into a rivalry that has seen significant coaching turnover recently.
Fisch's journey in this rivalry began in 2024 when he first faced Washington State under then-head coach Jake Dickert. At that time, Fisch was still acclimating to his role at Washington, having taken over a roster that needed significant rebuilding. The Huskies fell short in that initial encounter, losing 24-19 at Lumen Field. However, Fisch turned the tide in the following season, leading the Huskies to a record-setting 59-point victory over the Cougars in Pullman, showcasing his ability to adapt and improve.
This year, the stakes are high as Fisch prepares for the season opener against a Washington State team that will be under the guidance of Moore, who previously served as a graduate assistant at Washington. Moore's coaching journey includes stints as an offensive coordinator at Missouri and various roles at Fresno State, where he honed his skills under notable coaches. His experience as a standout wide receiver at Boise State adds another layer to his understanding of the game.
Fisch acknowledged the difficulties that come with preparing for a game against a new coaching staff, particularly when it involves evaluating film and understanding different schemes. "The preparation is challenging, that’s for sure," Fisch remarked during his press conference. He highlighted the contrast between his first year at Washington, where he faced a stable coaching staff at WSU, and the current situation where he and his team have the advantage of continuity.
With Moore’s coaching staff also bringing fresh perspectives, including offensive coordinator Matt Miller and defensive coordinator Trent Bray, Fisch knows that the game will require his team to be adaptable. Bray, who previously served as Oregon State's head coach, has faced Fisch once before, managing to limit the Wildcats' offensive production significantly in their last encounter.
Fisch's focus is on ensuring his team is prepared for whatever challenges arise on Sunday. He stated, "All together, I think there’s a lot of work to be had to figure things out in the first quarter, and then go from there." This sentiment reflects the uncertainty that comes with the opening game of the season, especially against a rival team with a new leader.
As the Huskies prepare to take the field at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, Fisch is aware that the dynamics of the rivalry may shift with Moore at the helm. The Apple Cup has always been a fiercely contested matchup, and with both teams eager to start the season on a high note, fans can expect an exciting showdown.
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